Physiological functionalities and mechanisms of β-glucans

Conclusionsβ-Glucans are effective in many aspects of human health, including cancer prevention, reducing glycemia and serum cholesterol, anti-inflammation, as well as improving immunity. The modification of β-glucans contributes to better solubility, viscosity and gelation, which can change the bioactivities of β-glucans. The action mechanisms of β-glucans and their derivatives are considered to be mainly mediated by some cytokines and hormones in subjects. Human health is supported by various mechanism researches. Although certain action mechanisms remain unclear, the clarification of how β-glucans exhibit biological effects is beneficial for our understanding of complicated biochemical reaction in living organisms.
Source: Trends in Food Science and Technology - Category: Food Science Source Type: research